Introduction

Popcorn Cake is a fun and colorful treat that’s perfect for parties or a playful dessert. This easy no-bake recipe combines buttery marshmallows with crunchy popcorn and vibrant M&M’s for a sweet and satisfying snack everyone will love.

Ingredients

¾ cup salted butter
20 ounces mini marshmallows (two 10-ounce packages)
14 cups bagged pre-popped unflavored popcorn, kernels removed (microwave popcorn can be substituted)
2 cups plain M&M’s

Instructions

Step 1: Lightly spray a 10-cup Bundt cake pan with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: In a medium microwave-safe bowl, add the butter and both packages of mini marshmallows. Heat on high power in 30-second increments, stirring between each, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth.
Step 3: Place the popped popcorn into an extra-large bowl (6 to 7 quarts).
Step 4: Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the popcorn and gently stir with a wooden spoon to combine.
Step 5: Sprinkle in the M&M’s and carefully stir to avoid smudging the candy colors.
Step 6: Scoop the coated popcorn mixture into the prepared Bundt cake pan, pressing down gently as you fill the pan.
Step 7: Let the popcorn cake rest at room temperature for 2 hours, or until firm.
Step 8: Invert the cake onto a serving plate and cut into 12 slices.

Tips & Variations

Use plain popcorn without butter or flavorings to avoid overpowering the marshmallow sweetness.
Substitute peanut M&M’s or other candy pieces for extra texture and flavor.
Press the mixture gently to keep the popcorn fluffy and prevent crushing the M&M’s colors.
For a chocolate twist, drizzle melted chocolate over the finished cake before it sets.

Storage

Store the popcorn cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Avoid refrigeration as it may cause the popcorn to become stale. To refresh slightly, break the cake into pieces and warm gently in the microwave before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use freshly popped popcorn instead of bagged popcorn?

Yes, freshly popped popcorn works well, but be sure it is fully cooled and unbuttered for the best texture and flavor.

Will the M&M’s colors run in the marshmallow mixture?

The colors may smudge slightly if stirred vigorously, so stir gently after adding the M&M’s to maintain their bright appearance.

Popcorn Cake Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 136 reviews

A colorful and fun Popcorn Cake that combines buttery melted marshmallows, sweet M&M’s, and plenty of popcorn, molded into a festive bundt shape. This no-bake treat is perfect for parties, holidays, or anytime you want a crunchy, chewy snack with bright bursts of candy color.

Author: Isabella
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 12 slices 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Popcorn Cake Ingredients

¾ cup salted butter
20 ounces mini marshmallows (two 10 ounce packages)
14 cups bagged pre-popped unflavored popcorn (kernels removed) – microwave popcorn can be substituted
2 cups plain M&M’s

Instructions

Prepare the pan: Lightly spray a 10 cup Bundt cake pan with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Melt butter and marshmallows: In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter and mini marshmallows. Heat on high in 30 second increments, stirring between each, until the mixture is fully melted and smooth.
Add popcorn: Place the 14 cups of popped popcorn into an extra large bowl (6 to 7 quarts) for mixing.
Combine marshmallow mixture with popcorn: Pour the melted marshmallow and butter mixture over the popcorn. Use a wooden spoon to gently stir until the popcorn is evenly coated.
Add M&M’s: Sprinkle in the 2 cups of plain M&M’s. Stir very gently to avoid smudging the candy colors.
Press into pan: Scoop the coated popcorn mixture into the prepared Bundt cake pan, pressing down gently to compact the mixture evenly.
Set the cake: Let the popcorn cake rest at room temperature for 2 hours or until firm and set.
Serve: Carefully turn the popcorn cake out onto a serving plate and slice into 12 pieces. Enjoy!

Notes

Using microwave popcorn is a quick substitute but ensure kernels are removed for texture.
Be gentle when mixing in M&M’s to keep the colors vibrant and prevent smudging.
Make sure the popcorn cake is completely firm before slicing to avoid crumbling.
This cake is best served the same day but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days.
You can also customize by using different colored candies or adding nuts for crunch.

Keywords: popcorn cake, marshmallow popcorn cake, M&M popcorn dessert, no bake popcorn cake, party treat